Phnom Penh, 26 June 2026 — H.E. Dr. Chheang Vannarith, Deputy Secretary-General of the National Assembly and Chairman of the National Assembly Advisory Council, on Thursday afternoon delivered a special guest lecture titled "Navigating a Dangerous World: Building a Coalition of the Willing among Small States and Middle Powers" at the American University of Phnom Penh (AUPP).
 
The lecture brought together around 40 faculty members and students, providing a platform for meaningful discussions on contemporary international affairs and valuable insights that bridged academic learning with the practical realities of global diplomacy.
 
During the lecture, Dr. Chheang Vannarith shared perspectives on the profound transformation of the international system, noting that the emerging multipolar world is increasingly characterized by intensifying major power competition and the rising influence of middle powers in shaping regional and global affairs.
 
He emphasized that small states should move beyond merely responding to geopolitical pressures by proactively strengthening cooperation with like-minded countries and middle powers to amplify their collective voice and contribute to a more stable and inclusive international order.
 
Dr. Chheang Vannarith also highlighted the critical need for smaller states to maintain strategic autonomy by diversifying partnerships, and firmly upholding open multilateralism and international law as the bedrock of global governance.
 
He added that deeper regional economic integration and broader international cooperation remain essential to safeguarding national interests, enhancing resilience, and promoting sustainable development.
 
The lecture concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, during which students and faculty exchanged views on Southeast Asian geopolitics and the growing role of minilateral cooperation.